CompTIA Network+ Study Guide
February 5, 2023
Discover the best CompTIA Network+ study guide resources, including exam objectives, recommended books, and online resources to help you prepare and succeed in your certification journey.
CompTIA
Embarking on your CompTIA Network+ certification journey can be both exciting and challenging. To help you succeed, we've compiled the ultimate study guide, complete with exam objectives, recommended books, and online resources tailored to your needs. Get ready to accelerate your IT career and ace the CompTIA Network+ exam with confidence.
What is the CompTIA Network+?
CompTIA Network+ is an IT certification that validates a professional's foundational networking knowledge and skills. It covers a wide range of networking concepts, including network design, troubleshooting, security, and management. The certification is recognized worldwide and can help professionals advance their careers in the IT industry.
How to pass the CompTIA Network+
To prepare for the CompTIA Network+ certification exam, it is essential to have reliable study materials. Here are some of the recommended study materials:
Books
CompTIA Network+ Certification All-in-One Exam Guide:
Written by Mike Meyers, this comprehensive guide covers all the exam objectives and includes practical examples, real-world scenarios, and practice exam questions. With its easy-to-understand language and detailed explanations, this book is a must-have for your Network+ exam preparation.
CompTIA Network+ Study Guide:
Authored by Todd Lammle, this study guide provides a complete and in-depth understanding of the CompTIA Network+ exam objectives. It also includes practice exam questions, hands-on labs, and review questions to reinforce your learning.
Video courses
Professor Messer's CompTIA Network+ Training:
This free video course by Professor Messer is a comprehensive resource that covers all the exam objectives in an easy-to-follow format. With clear explanations and practical examples, this course is perfect for both beginners and experienced professionals.
CompTIA Network+ (N10-008) Complete Video Course
Created by Jason Dion, this video course offers a thorough understanding of the CompTIA Network+ exam objectives. Combining in-depth video lectures, real-world examples, and a full practice exam.
Practice tests
CompTIA Network+ (N10-008) 6 Practice Exams and Simulations
This course offers six realistic practice exams that closely emulate the actual exam experience, helping you to gain a deep understanding of the question types and format. Enhance your confidence and readiness to excel in the CompTIA Network+ exam.
CertMaster Practice for Network+
CompTIA's official practice test tool, CertMaster Practice, is tailored to the Network+ exam objectives and helps you reinforce your learning through personalized feedback and performance-based questions.
Study Groups
CompTIA Network+ Study Group on Reddit:
Join the CompTIA Network+ subreddit to connect with fellow exam-takers, share study materials, and seek advice from experienced professionals. This supportive community fosters a collaborative learning environment to help you excel in your exam preparation.
Online Resources
CompTIA Network+ Exam Objectives:
Download the official CompTIA Network+ exam objectives to gain a clear understanding of the topics covered in the exam, and use this as a foundation for your study plan.
CompTIA Network+ Certification Training by CompTIA
CompTIA also offers official training courses for the CompTIA Network+ certification. The courses are available both online and in-person and include hands-on labs and real-world scenarios to help you prepare for the exam.
CompTIA Network+ Exam Objectives
To excel in the CompTIA Network+ exam, it's crucial to familiarize yourself with its objectives. These objectives outline the knowledge and skills you need to demonstrate throughout the test. The exam focuses on five primary domains:
- Networking Concepts (23%)
- Infrastructure (18%)
- Network Operations (17%)
- Network Security (20%)
- Network Troubleshooting and Tools (22%)
Networking Concepts
In this domain, you'll be required to demonstrate an understanding of:
- Networking basics, such as topologies, protocols, and ports
- IP addressing, including IPv4 and IPv6
- Routing and switching technologies
- Virtualized and cloud-based networking concepts
- Network services, such as DNS and DHCP
Infrastructure
The infrastructure domain covers:
- Cabling and connectors
- Networking devices, including switches, routers, and firewalls
- Wireless networking technologies, such as Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
- WAN technologies and services, like MPLS and PPPoE
- Network storage, including NAS and SAN
Network Operations
This domain focuses on:
- Network management and monitoring tools
- Configuration management and documentation
- Network performance optimization and QoS
- Disaster recovery and business continuity planning
- Incident response and change management processes
Network Security
In the network security domain, you'll need to grasp:
- Network threats, vulnerabilities, and attacks
- Security devices, such as firewalls and IDS/IPS
- Authentication and access control mechanisms
- VPN technologies and remote access solutions
- Secure network design principles
Network Troubleshooting and Tools
This domain emphasizes:
- Troubleshooting methodologies, such as the OSI model and TCP/IP model
- Network troubleshooting tools, like Wireshark and ping
- Identifying and resolving common networking issues
- Troubleshooting network security problems
- Resolving wireless, WAN, and virtualization-related issues
CompTIA Network+ Exam Details
The CompTIA Network+ exam (N10-008) is a globally recognized certification that tests a candidate's foundational knowledge of networking concepts, including network design, troubleshooting, security, and management.
The exam consists of a maximum of 90 multiple-choice and performance-based questions, and candidates are given 90 minutes to complete the test. A passing score is 720 out of 900.
The Network+ exam covers five main domains: networking concepts, infrastructure, network operations, network security, and network troubleshooting and tools.
By successfully passing the exam, IT professionals demonstrate their ability to design, configure, manage, and troubleshoot both wired and wireless networks.
Preparing for the CompTIA A+ Exam
The CompTIA A+ certification is an entry-level IT certification that covers a wide range of hardware and software technologies, focusing on computer troubleshooting and support.
To prepare for the A+ exam, start by reviewing the exam objectives, which outline the knowledge areas tested on the exam. Acquire quality study materials such as textbooks, video courses, and practice exams, and create a study plan that allocates sufficient time to cover each topic.
Hands-on experience is crucial for the A+ certification, so consider building a home lab, working with virtual machines, or participating in internships to gain practical skills. Networking with other IT professionals and joining study groups can also provide valuable insights and support during the preparation process.
Why should you get CompTIA Network+ certified?
Strengthen Your Fundamentals
CompTIA Network+ certification offers a comprehensive understanding of networking concepts and practices. By studying for this certification, you will gain:
- A strong foundation in networking principles: Learn the basics of network architecture, protocols, and media types, ensuring a solid understanding of the core elements of networking.
- Practical skills: Develop hands-on experience with network troubleshooting, management, and configuration, giving you the confidence to tackle real-world challenges.
- Vendor-neutral knowledge: Gain insights into various networking technologies and equipment from different manufacturers, ensuring you have the flexibility to work with diverse systems.
Enhance Your Career Prospects
The CompTIA Network+ certification is widely recognized by employers as a valuable credential, demonstrating your expertise in networking. With this certification, you can:
- Boost your employability: IT professionals with a Network+ certification are more likely to be hired, as employers recognize the value of a certified workforce.
- Access diverse job opportunities: Network+ certification opens up a range of positions, including network administrator, network engineer, and network analyst roles.
- Advance in your career: A Network+ certification can be a stepping stone to more advanced certifications, such as CompTIA Security+ or Cisco CCNA, enabling you to grow in your profession.
Improve Your Salary Potential
Certified professionals often command higher salaries than their non-certified counterparts. By obtaining your CompTIA Network+ certification, you can:
- Negotiate a better compensation package: Employers are more likely to offer higher salaries to certified professionals due to their proven expertise.
- Increase your earning potential: According to various industry surveys, Network+ certified professionals can earn up to 9% more than their non-certified peers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is CompTIA Network+ hard?
The difficulty of the CompTIA Network+ exam is subjective, depending on an individual's prior experience and familiarity with networking concepts. For someone with a solid understanding of networking fundamentals, the exam may be less challenging than for someone new to the field. However, with proper preparation, study materials, and dedication, most individuals can successfully pass the exam.
Is CompTIA Network+ worth IT?
Yes, the CompTIA Network+ certification is worth it for many IT professionals. It provides a solid foundation in networking concepts and is recognized by employers as a valuable credential. Obtaining the certification can improve your career prospects, job opportunities, and earning potential.
Is CompTIA Network+ easier than CCNA?
CompTIA Network+ is generally considered to be easier than Cisco's CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate) certification. Network+ focuses on foundational networking concepts, whereas CCNA delves deeper into specific Cisco networking technologies and devices. However, both certifications are valuable and can complement each other in an IT professional's career.
Is Network+ enough to get a job?
While the CompTIA Network+ certification can improve your job prospects, it may not be sufficient to secure a job on its own. Employers often consider factors such as experience, additional certifications, and education when hiring. However, having the Network+ certification can give you a competitive edge in the job market.
How long does it take to get N+?
The time required to prepare for and obtain the CompTIA Network+ certification varies based on an individual's experience and study habits. On average, most candidates spend 2-4 months studying for the exam.
Should I do A+ or Network+ first?
It depends on your career goals and interests. If you are new to the IT field or want to focus on computer hardware and software troubleshooting, consider pursuing the CompTIA A+ certification first. If your interests lie in networking, the Network+ certification may be a better starting point.
Should I do Security+ or Network+ first?
It depends on your career goals and interests. If your primary focus is networking, start with the Network+ certification. If you are more interested in IT security, consider pursuing Security+ first. However, some professionals choose to complete Network+ before Security+ to establish a solid foundation in networking concepts, which can be beneficial for understanding IT security principles.
Does Net+ expire?
Yes, the CompTIA Network+ certification expires after three years. To maintain the certification, you can either retake the exam or participate in CompTIA's Continuing Education (CE) program to earn CEUs (Continuing Education Units).
How much can I make with a Network+ certification?
The salary for a Network+ certified professional varies depending on factors like location, experience, and job role. On average, professionals with Network+ certification can expect to earn between $40,000 and $75,000 per year.
Is Network+ one exam or two?
The CompTIA Network+ certification requires passing a single exam, known as the N10-008(Network+)
Can I take the Network+ exam at home?
Yes, CompTIA offers online testing for the Network+ exam through its partnership with Pearson VUE. You can take the exam from the comfort of your own home, provided you have a reliable internet connection and a suitable testing environment.
How many times can you fail the CompTIA Network+ exam?
There is no limit to the number of times you can retake the CompTIA Network+ exam. However, you must wait 14 days between retakes if you fail the exam. After the third attempt, you must wait an additional 14 days between each subsequent attempt.
Can CompTIA get me a job?
While CompTIA certifications, such as Network+, can improve your job prospects and increase your marketability, they do not guarantee a job. Employers often consider factors such as experience, additional certifications, and education when hiring. However, having CompTIA certifications can give you a competitive edge in the job market.
Can I take CompTIA without experience?
Yes, it is possible to take CompTIA exams without prior experience. However, CompTIA recommends having some experience or completing relevant training courses before attempting their certification exams. For the Network+ exam, CompTIA recommends having 9-12 months of networking experience or equivalent education.
Do I need a degree if I have CompTIA certification?
Having a CompTIA certification, such as Network+, can enhance your career prospects and showcase your skills. However, some employers may still require a college degree for certain positions. It is essential to research job requirements and pursue additional education or certifications as needed to meet your career goals.